Dr Rich Crane

Lecturer in Sustainable Mining

Email:

Telephone: 01326 214370

Research: My main research interests lie in the areas of extractive metallurgy, materials science, nanotechnology and applied geochemistry for a range of applications including the development of novel mining techniques, mine site reclamation, waste treatment, water treatment and contaminant transport. I also like to apply a holistic approach which considers the wider environmental, cultural and political factors.

In particular my current research pursuits follow five strands: 1) Nanotech: Investigating the utility of nanomaterials in the recovery of metals and metalloids from aqueous wastes 2) Hydromet: The development of novel (selective, environmental compatible, etc.) hydrometallurgical processes 3) Waste upcycling: The development of new techniques for the direct conversion of wastes into functional products (e.g. materials, energy) 4) Emerging contaminants: The use of novel laboratory and/or field techniques for the identification and characterisation of emerging contaminants (particularly nanomaterials, including nanoplastics) 5) Legacy mine waste: Examining the composition and environmental impact of legacy mine waste and their co-location with cultural, environmental and ecological designations

Opportunities: I am always interested to hear from prospective research students (MSc, MEng or PhD), postdoctoral researchers or other types of collaborators. Please get in touch if you have any interesting ideas. I currently have full funding for a PhD research project. If you already have a project in mind then please email me a brief overview along with your CV.